EXCLUSIVE: Who is Fran Tudor, the Under-21 international being scouted by Milan?
The young Hadjuk Split right-back, 20, is worth around €4 million, recently making his debut for Croatia's Under-21 team, and participating in his side's 3-0 mauling of Spain last month.
But who is he? No, it's not what you think. Fran Tudor has no connection to former Juventus defender Igor Tudor... except for one thing.
When the promising Croatian right-back (who can also play in midfield and as a right wing forward) moved to Hajduk Split from Panathinaikos, Tudor Sr decided to bench him...and move him to the B Team! I guess names aren't always helpful!
It had been a rough ride for the then-18-year-old, who had struggled to acclimatise in Greece and been sent home after one season.
Everything changed a year ago, however, when Igor's replacement, Damir Buric, had to deal with starter Marin Leovac's injury before a derby game against Rijeka. He decided to go with Tudor... and was repayed with an early goal. Though Rijeka would eventually win it 2-1, Tudor had exploded onto the scene.
Things would only get better from Tudor: this season alone, he has made 24 appearances, netted 5 goals, and has earned comparisons with Alessandro Florenzi. Make of that what you will.
A particular highlight was this strike on the counter in the slightly more important derby... againt Dinamo Zagreb. Though the fabulous defending will make your belly ache for the next six months, Tudor's talent isn't in question.
By the way, remember this goal from Igor Tudor, which sealed qualification to the knockout stages of the 2002/2003 Champions League against Deportivo? What a beauty!
